Plan a silent auction as a solo event, or add it to an existing fundraising initiative as a supplementary revenue driver. Reach out to your network to start assembling items and appoint a committee of volunteers who can solicit their contacts for additional gifts.

By shifting this event to virtual, it becomes more accessible to your audience. When it comes down to how to host an online auction that engages your audience, consider promoting any auction items in an email blast and on social media to engage attendees, then take advantage of the opportunity to ask for additional donations throughout the event.

Lakeview Pantry celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020 by offering supporters the chance to bid on several prizes at their online silent auction. All bidding was submitted online prior to the livestream and remained open until one hour after the virtual program ended. This allowed all supporters to participate, even if they couldn’t attend the live virtual event.